Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 20,312, Joseph Fitch, New York

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
New York
Fitch, Joseph Kelsey, Cataline Catalina (Former Wid
W. 20, 31 2
CONTENTS

3.375
H H Bostwick June 26 1853 " " Feby 7 1855
New York Albany
Cataline Nelson, the formerly widow of Joseph Fitch who died on the June 1779 of N.Y. in the State of who was a Lieut. in the commanded by Captain of the commanded by in the Revolution time for 1 year 6 months & 5 days.
Increased from $136 85.
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 242 Dollars 32 1/2 Cents per annum, to commence on the 1 st day of March, 1831. Sent 27 th June 1841
Certificate of Pension issued the 29 th day of June, 1834, and sent to
A. H. Markland Arrears to the 4th of Semi-annual allowance ending Present.
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the }
G. T. Getty
Recorded by Clerk, Book (2) Vol. 2 Page 358
H. A. Oliver
Jan 4/56
1878 Oct 31 Mrs El P R Briggs - stating the allowance of the pension & that the increase granted all the widows was entitled to

State of New York Yates County ss.
On the fourteenth day of November 1837, personally appeared before the County Court of the said County of Yates being a Court of Record, Cataline Kelsey, a resident of the Town of Benton, in said County and State of New York, aged eighty years and upwards who, being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 4, 1836, and the act explanatory of said act, passed March 3, 1837: That she was married to Joseph Fitch, who was a Second Lieutenant in Capt. John Fisher's Company in the Second Continental Regiment commanded by Col. G. Van Schaick, in the service of the United States, that said Fitch was in service at the time of their marriage and continued in said service for something more than a year afterwards and until after the surrender of Burgoyne, that her said husband was with the army in the capture of Burgoyne but his other particular services she cannot recollect.
She further declares, that she was married to the said Joseph Fitch in the month of November 1776, at the Spence Town, Albany County, State of New York, by the Reverend Jesse Clark; that her husband, the aforesaid Joseph Fitch died in January 1779, in consequence of a wound received in an affray with the Tories in the now Town of Schoharie, Rensselaer County: that she was afterwards married to Elijah Kelsey, who died on the fifth day of January 1816; and, that she was a widow on the 4th of July, 1836, and still remains a

widow, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed.
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written, before
State of New York
Calatine her Kelsey mark
County of Yates ss. I hereby certify that the above named Calatine Kelsey who I know appeared in open court and subscribed and made oath to the truth of the matters contained in the foregoing affidavit
In testimony whereof,
I hereunto affix the seal of said County and date this 14 th day of November 1837
Geo. Shearman Clerk.
Calatine Kelsey
FITCH, JOSEPH (NY) W-20312

Cathalina Kelsey.
528.
Devonshire 36 ad
COPIES OF STATE OF

STATE OF New York } ss. COUNTY OF Yates }
BE IT KNOWN, That before me Robert Buel a Justice of the Peace in and for the said county, personally appeared Henry Kelny who being duly sworn according to law doth depose and say, that he is the child of Cathalina Kelny deceased, widow of Joseph Fitch (who was an officer in the war of the Revolution,) that he now makes this declaration to recover any pension-moneys that may be due on account of the services of Joseph Fitch as aforesaid, for the benefit of himself & Gilbert Kelny
under any acts or resolutions of Congress applicable to the case; and that he is directly interested in the same, and makes this affidavit to be filed by his attorney.
Sworn and subscribed this 20 th day of November 185 2 , before me, Henry Kelny Robert Buel Justice of the Peace.
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, That I Henry Kelny child of Cathalina Kelny deceased, widow of Joseph Fitch (who was an officer in the war of the Revolution,) for value received do hereby constitute and appoint Clarence H. Brant  ROBERT W. YOUNG, Esq. Washington, D. C., my true and lawful attorney irrevocably for me, and in my name to prosecute my claim to any pension-moneys that may be found due on account of the services of said Joseph Fitch as aforesaid; and I hereby authorize my said attorney to examine all papers and documents touching my claim, on file in the departments at Washington or elsewhere, and file any additional evidence or arguments he may think proper, to ensure the recovery of the same.
Witness my hand and seal this 20 th day of November A.D. 185 2 Signed and sealed in the presence of
WITNESS, Robert Buel WITNESS, A Woodworth
Henry Kelny (L. S.)
STATE OF New York } ss. COUNTY OF Yates }
On this 20 th day of November A. D. 185 2 , before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, personally appeared Henry Kelny and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be his act and deed. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
Robert Buel Justice of the Peace.

State of New York, } ss. Yates County Clerk's Office.
I hereby certify that Robert Buel Esquire, before whom the foregoing declaration and proceedings were had and sworn to, and who has subscribed his name thereto, was, at the date thereof, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn and authorized to administer oaths, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of said County of Yates, and of the several Courts of record thereof, (being my official seal) this 20 th day of November 185 2
Alfred Reed Clerk.
Robert Buel
[Faint mirrored text from the reverse side of the page]

Add Evidence case of Catalina Kelsey New York 31 st Dec
Colo
A. H. Markland. Recd June 29 th 1884

State of New York } ss. County of Yates. }
I, John L. Lewis Jr. County Judge of the County of Yates and ex-officio Surrogate of said County - at a Surrogate Court held in said County this twenty sixth day of June 1854, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been presented to me that Cataline Kelsey deceased, formerly widow of Joseph Fitch deceased, was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States - that she died on the twenty seventh day of June 1844, leaving only two children surviving her who were named Gillett Kelsey and Henry Kelsey; both of whom now survive residents of said County.
It is further certified that William Taylor and Gillett Kelsey, have been duly appointed Administrators of the Estate of the said Cataline Kelsey deceased, having given bond for the faithful performance of their duties as administrators in the penal sum of $4000.00 which said Bond is on file in the office of the said Surrogate.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name annexed the proofs above referred to, and affixed the seal of said Court the day & year first above mentioned.
John L. Lewis Jr. Yates County Judge

State of New York County of Yates N.Y.
On this twenty sixth day of June A.D. 1857, before me John L. Lewis Jr. County Judge, of County Courts held in and for said county, duly authorized by law to admin- ister oaths, personally appeared James F. Kelsey and David P. Spencer residents of said County who are to me known to be credible wit- nesses, who being by me duly sworn according to law, on their oaths state that they were acquainted with Mrs. Cataline Kelsey, formerly widow of Joseph Fitch, deceased, having known her for at least ten years be- fore her death: That she died on or about the 27 th day of June 1841 being at the time of her death a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States - that at the time of her death she had but two children living, who survived her and both of whom now survive and are named Gillett Kelsey, and Henry Kelsey. That there are no other child or children of the said Cataline Kelsey now living.
That they are acquainted with Gillett Kelsey and William Taylor, who are administrators of the Estate of said Cataline Kelsey deceased & know the said Gillett to be one of the children and heirs at law of said deceased.
Subscribed & sworn to before me this 26 th day of June 1857, & I certify that I am not in any manner interested herein as attorney or otherwise.
John L. Lewis Jr. Yates County Judge
J. F. Kelsey David P. Spencer

State of New York
Tates County ss:
Know all men by these presents that we Gillet Kelsey and William Taylor Administrators of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits of Catalina Kelsey deceased with the will annexed do hereby constitute and appoint Clement H. Bennett of the City of Washington our true and lawful Attorney for us and in our names to ask, apply for, obtain, recover and receive from the United States all sums of money that may be due or become due to the said Administrators for arrears of pension due to the said Catalina Kelsey, or which has been or is now due in any manner to the said Catalina Kelsey deceased or her personal representatives as a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States by virtue of any Act of Congress heretofore passed, and attorneys under him to appoint for the above purposes and again at his pleasure to revoke; hereby revoking all like former heretofore executed by us, and hereby granting to our said Attorney full and ample power and authority in the premises, firmly and irrevocably and ratifying whatsoever he shall lawfully do by virtue hereof.
Witness our hands and seals this fifth day of June 1854
Witness present A Woodworth John S. Lewis Jr
Gillet Kelsey Wm Taylor
State of New York
Tates County ss:
On this fifth day of June 1854 before me the undersigned County Judge of said County personally came Gillet Kelsey and William Taylor to me known to be the persons described in and who executed the foregoing power of attorney and severally acknowledged to me that they had executed the same.
John S. Lewis Jr

State of New-York, } ss. Yates County Clerk's Office, }
I, CLARKSON MARTIN, Clerk of said County, and of the County Court of said County, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify that John L. Lewis Jr. Esquire, was, at the date of the certificate of proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument in writing, a County Judge in and for said County, duly authorized to take the same: that I am well acquainted with his hand writing, and verily believe that the signature to said certificate is genuine: and that the annexed instrument is executed and acknowledged according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony Whereof , I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of said County, at Penn Yan, this 5 th day of June 185 4
C. Martin CLERK.

September 22 1898
Dear Sir,
We would like to know whether the original papers recorded in the pension department, where a Mrs. Catherine Telsey, widow of Lieutenant Joseph Titch of the Revolutionary war had drawn a pension & her heirs had drawn a pension after her death having been notified to that effect. Mary & Gillet Telsey her heirs & whether there is any thing remaining which the heirs are entitled to from the service rendered according to the testimony therein recorded as the agent has stated.

there was more money the heirs were entitled to remainings
If there is anything more wanted please address Gillet Hulsey
Pennsylvania
Yates Co
at NY
Mrs Edward R Briggs Daughter of Gillet Hulsey

Grandmother Catharina Kelsey received her pension somewhere between the years of 1837 th & 40 & died in the year 1841 her sons Gilbert Kelsey & Henry Kelsey received money after having been notified in 5-4 or there about a pension agent having said that was more money due them
Mrs E. A. Briggs Gilbert Kelsey still living at the age of 81

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 20312
Cataline Kelsey Former Widow of Joseph Fitch Lieut Genl War
Act July 4th 86
Index: Vol. 14 , Page 393
[Arrangement of 1870.]

The People of the State of New York
By the Grace of God  FREE and INDEPENDENT.
To Joseph Fitch Esq m  Greeting.
WE reposing especial Trust and Confidence, as well in your Patriotism, Con- -duct and Loyalty, as in your Valour and Readiness to do us good and faithful Service; Have Appointed and constituted, and by these Presents DO Appoint and Constitute you the said Joseph Fitch First Lieutenant of Captain Robert Woodworth's Com- pany in the County of Albany, in the Regiment whereof William Van Rensselaer Esquire is Colonel. You are therefore, to take the said Company into your charge and care as First Lieutenant thereof, and duly to exercise the Officers and Soldiers of that Company in Arms, who are hereby commanded to obey you as their First Lieutenant and you are also to Observe and follow such Orders and Directions, as you shall from time to time, receive from our General and Commander in chief of the Militia of our said State, or any other your Superior Officer, Accor- -ding to the Rules and discipline of War, in pursuance of the Trust reposed in you; and for so doing this shall be Your Commission, for and during our good pleasure, to be Signified by our Council of appointment. In Testimony whereof, we have caused our Seal for Military Commissions to be hereunto Affixed. Witness our Trusty and well beloved George Clinton Esquire , our Governor of our State of New-York, General and Commander in chief of all the Militia, and Admiral of the Navy of the same, by and with the Advice and Consent of our said Council of Appointment, at Poughkeepsie the Twenty Fifth day of June in the Second year of our Independence, and in the year of our LO rd one Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Eight.
Passed the Secretary's Office. July 2: 1778
By His Excellency's Command.
W m B. Bacher  Secretary
Geo. Clinton

Catherine Kelsey, widow Joseph Fitch, New York Admitted probably '36 3375- Markland to Ex

Dead
to Hon. W. M. Oliver 30 July 18.
A. H. Markland. 20 th Jany. 1854.
A. H. Markland. 20 June 1854.
Albany 3375
Cataline Kelsey, who was widow of Joseph Fitch
who died on the — June 1779 of Yates Co. in the State of N. York who was a Lieutenant in the company commanded by Captain Fisher of the regt. commanded by Col. Van Schaick in the N. York line for 10 months & 8 days
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 136 Dollars 82 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 29. day of June 1840 and sent to Hon. M. Mallory, House of Representatives
Arrears to the 4th of March '40 1231.38 Semi-annual allowance ending 4 Sept. 63.41 $1394.79
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 3 — 8 March 1837 }
Recorded by D. Brown Clerk, Book C. Vol. 1. Page 120

24 44
Catalina Kelsey
As July 4. 1836 L
March 3. 1837
Marr'd Oct. 1776 1 st Husband died Jun 1779 2 nd do — " 5 Jun 1816 — no children
Col Van Schuick
Capt John Fisher
Admitted Lias mo 10 & 8 days $136.82
ob
Hon M. Mallory
H. R.
219

POWER OF ATTORNEY AND CERTIFICATE.
Know all men by these presents, That I, Gilles Kelsey  do hereby constitute of the County of Jales and State of New York , do hereby constitute and appoint H. H. BOSTWICK, of Auburn, N. Y., my true and lawful attorney, irrevocable, for me and in my behalf, to prosecute my claim for whatever pension benefits I may be entitled to as a child of Catherine  Kelsey formerly widow of Joseph Fitch in account of the military services of said Fitch in the Revolutionary war.
and to receive such Certificate as may be issued, and to appoint one or more attorneys under him for the purposes aforesaid, hereby revoking any power of attorney which may have been heretofore given, and confirming all things that my attorney, the said H. H. BOSTWICK, may lawfully do in the premises.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this first day of
November A. D. 1851 In the fifth line from the word "Catherine" erase "Catalina" insert before insert on Witnesses J. Van Alen J. D. Wolcott
Gilles Kelsey 
Acknowledged before me the day and year last above written. And I certify that I am not interested or concerned in the prosecution or result of this case. And that I am satisfied that the said Gilles Kelsey is a child of said Catherine Kelsey now deceased.
James T. Van Alen Justice of the Peace.

STATE OF New York } Gates County Clerk's Office. }
I hereby certify that James L. Van Alen before whom the annexed Deposition  Acknowledgment was taken, was at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace, in and for the county and State aforesaid, duly elected, and authorized to take the same, and that the signature thereto purporting to be his is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereto set my hand and affix the seal of said county, and of the Court of Record thereof, this 1 st day of November 185 4 . And I further certify that I am not interested or concerned in the prosecution or result of this case.
G. Martin County Clerk, of Gates County.

State of New York,
County of Yates, ss: — I hereby certify that Richard M. Smith Esquire, whose signature is subscribed to the certificate of Proof of the execution of the annexed affidavit and endorsed thereon, was at the date of said certificate a Commissioner of Deeds — in and for the county afore- said, duly authorised by the laws of said State to act as such. That I am well acquainted with his hand writing and verily believe his said signature to be genuine.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto affix the seal of said County and of the County Courts thereof (my official seal) the 14 th day of March
A. D. 1838
M c Lean J. Dep. Clk.
Elijah Spence & Joshua Lee have both been members of Congress.

28 June 136.82
Cataline Kelsey. Act 1836. $136.82 per ann. Died 28 June 1841. paid.
J. G. Rind for Auditor

Pension Office.
28 th June 1854.
Albany. N. York Rolls. Act 4 th July 1836. $136.82 per annum.
Catalina Kelsey formerly widow of Joseph Fitch.
To what time paid?
When did she die?
L. Waldo for Commr.
Francis Burk Esqr. Third Auditor.

Inverness.
Catalina Kelsey the formerly widow of Joseph Fitch.
New York.
Admitted.
Act 11 th July 1836.
1 yr. 6 mos. & 5 days interest. rank at $242.22 per an- num from 14 th March 1831 to 27 th June 1841, when she died deduc- ting former payments at $136.82 per annum.
Pay to, William Taylor and Gillitt Kelsey Administrators for bene- fit of Henry Kelsey, and Gillitt Kelsey only surviving children
Certificate to, A. H. Markland Esqr. Present.

State of New York Ontario County ss.
Catalina Kelsey of the Town of Benton aged eighty years and upward being duly sworn according to law doth declau- are say, in addition to her former declaration, that she was married at Spence Town in Columbia (then Albany) County, in October 1776 to Joseph Fitch then a Second Lieutenant in Col. Horse Vandchaicks, being the 2 d Continental Regiment, at which time said Fitch was at home on furlough - That shortly afterwards he rejoined the Army un- der said Officers and remained in Service until after the Capture of Burgoyne in 1777 When he returned and remained at home, ex- cept that he was occasionally out on Militia duty as before stated - That she cannot tell at what time he resigned his commission, but al- ways supposed it was on his return, which was in October or November 1777 - Nor can she say what became of his Commission of 2 d Lieutenant That she understood and believes that when her said husband left the Army he was still under the same Officers viz Capt Fisher and Colonel Vandchaick - That Capt Fisher was promoted but whether before or after her husband left the Army she cannot say - That there is no docu- mentary evidence existing to her knowledge ei- ther as to their marriage or his services other than what has been forwarded - Nor has she any other testimony that she knows of
Sworn this 12 th of March 1838 before E. Hoagath S.P. Burgoyne taken 16 Oct 1777.
Catalina x Kelsey mark
Subscribed to the foregoing Declarations Catalina Kelsey

And the said Catalina Kelsey , further deposes and says that the annexed Commission of First Lieutenant signed by George Clinton then Governor of the State of New York and by Abm. B. Barker Secretary dated at Poughkeepsie the 25 th day of June 1778 was given to and held by her late husband the Joseph Fitch
Sworn as before
Catalina her Kelsey mark
A. Hogenoth J.P.
7:18
I certify that I am acquainted with the above & Within Named Deponent and that she is a credible person and respectable character

State of New York
Herkany County ss. John Woodworth of the City of Utica in the County of Herkany and State of New York of the age of sixty eight years and upwards being sworn deposed and saith that he well remembers Joseph Fitch who was an uncle of this deponent; that he always understood the said Fitch served as a Lieutenant in Capt. John Fisher's Company in the year 1775 and 1776 and was with the army commanded by Genl. Montgomery in 1775; that he returned from Canada as this deponent is informed and believed in 1776 and was married to Catalina Breeze. but this deponent cannot state the precise time of such marriage; he however distinctly recollects that as early as the summer of 1777 they lived together as man and wife, and that their daughter, Abiel, now deceased, was born in the month of January 1778, the said Joseph Fitch died in the now Town of Schoharie and County of Schoharie in January 1779. as this deponent believes; that there are a number of facts in the perfect recollection of this deponent and so connected with the preceding statement respecting the service and marriage of said Fitch, that he feels confident he is under no mistake as to the facts above stated, and further saith not.
John Woodworth
Sworn this 29th day of September 1837 before me
J. Van Riper Comr of Ass'd certify that the above deponent is a credible witness of high character

State of New York County of Albany
ss I Conrad A. Ten Eyck Clerk of the Said County do hereby certify that Lemuel Jenkins before whom the foregoing affidavits purport to have been sworn and whose name is subscribed to the certificates of credibility was on the day of the date of the same a Commissioner of Deeds V o in and for the Said County and that his name subscribed to the said affidavits & certificates are genuine & his proper hand writing —
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed the Seal of the Said County this 29 th day of September 1837.
C. A. Ten Eyck Clerk

State of New York Ontario County ss.
Freeman Spencer of the Town of Benton and County of Yates, being duly sworn says, that he is Twenty three years old and up- wards, that he is well acquainted with Estaline Kelsey and has known her nearly forty years, that he knew Elijah Kelsey her late husband and knows that he died about January 1876, that she is now a widow and was a widow on the 4th of July 1886.
Freeman Spencer
Subscribed & sworn the 9th day of November 1887 before me
R. Hogaith S.P.
And I the said Justice do certify that the above named Freeman Spencer is a respectable person and of good character for truth & veracity which character he has sustained to my personal knowledge for fully five years last past. given under my hand the 9th day of November 1887
State of New York Ontario County ss.
R. Hogaith S.P.
I John L Doss, clerk of the county of Ontario do hereby certify that Richard Hogaith Esquire whose name is subscribed to the above certificate of character was at the time of taking the same a Justice of the Peace in & for the county aforesaid duly authorized to take affidavits commissioned & sworn and that I am well acquainted with his handwriting and verily believe that the signature above is genuine In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said county this ninth day of November 1887
John L Doss clerk

V2944 Cataline Kelsey New York
2944
Marr'd Oct 1776 1 st Husband died June 1779 2 do — " June 1816
Paper No 1
28 June 1775 mo 1 age 1776 - 9 13 days 1. 5 10. 8

State of New York Secretary's Office
Certify that it appears by the records of the Provincial Congress of New- York in this Office that on the 28 th day of June 1775 Joseph Fitch was appointed Second Lieutenant of Captain John Fisher's Company in the Second Continental Regiment whereof Goose Van Schaick was Colonel.
Given under my hand and the seal of this Office at the City of Albany the 29 th day of September A. D. 1837.
Arch d Campbell Dep. Secretary
2666 21992

ny.
8661
Hon. Meredith Mr Mallery H.R.

Further testimony in the case of Mrs. Hulsey. — Papers now on file in Pension office. Rev. Claims. —

Auburn, W.Y. Jany 31 st 1855,
Head. S t P. Waldo, Com d . of Pensins.
Sir,
In reply to yours of the 26 th inst., relative to the claim of the Children of Cataline Kelsey, former widow of Joseph Fitch de. c. for increase of Pension, I would say, that it is supposed that he served two years or over, and that she was entitled to the full pay of a Lieutenant. An increase was granted, but not to the extent to which the Children supposed they were entitled to, and their Agent who obtained made to them that there was more due, or that the amount allowed was not as much as the service and rate of pay of a Lieutenant would entitle them to,
Please let me hear from you again upon the subject,
Yours truly
H. H. Bastwick

Andover, Ms. Jany 17 th 1855.
Hon d S t Waldo, Com r of Pensions, Sir
Herewith Enclosed I send you Power of Attorney and Certificate in the Case of Catalina Kelley former widow of Joseph Fitch, a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary War.
It is claimed that the children have not received all that the widow was entitled to, but died without receiving.
Will you please examine the Case, and inform me whether there is any thing further due, and if so what proceedings will be required to enable the Children of Catalina Kelley to realize the same.
Yours truly
A. A. Postmaster

Jan. 10. 1839
N.Y.
add: George Henry Catachua Henry
EPIC
Henry J. Edwards Esq. Comt of Prisoners War Department Washington
no 11

Geneva Aug 5. 1839 J. J. Edwards Esquire Sir
I herewith enclose you an affidavit of Abram Van Ruesen, and a certificate of Judge Woodworth, in furtherance of the claim of Mrs. Catalina Kelsey for a pension —
Judge Woodworth has sent a Certificate instead of an affidavit. which I presume is intended rather as explanatory of his affidavit now on file in your office — Mrs. Woodworth is one of our Supremefront Ladies and well known to the President
Respectfully Your Obt Servt P. M. Day

Geneva March 15. 1838
Sir, I forward you herewith an additional declaration of Catalina Kelsey, who is an applicant for a pension. Which although it does not clearly set forth the requirements of your letter of the 17 th February may throw some light on them - That she was the wife of Lieutenant Fitch is shown by the affidavit of Judge Woodworth - which is corroborated by that of Nich l van Rensalaer Esq. as well as the services of said Fitch - Hoping that this case may meet a favourable issue
I am Respectfully
Your Ob d Servt
Amos Dagh
L. A. Edwards Esq Comm r Pensions

Breit in the case of Catalino Kelsey dec d formerly widow of Joseph Fitch — Yates — County and State of New York. act 4 th July, 1836
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
This claim was admitted under above act at $136.82 per annum for Joseph's services for ten months and eight days as Lieutenant. It is now shown he served for one year six months and five days as lieutenant. Catalino died 27 th June 1841 — proved by Order of Court and report of this Auditor. &c. Gillott Kelsey and Henry Kelsey only surviving children — proved by order of Yates County Court. Wm Taylor and Gillott Kelsey Administrators. Bond $4000.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent
A. H. Markland Esqr. Present.
Charles H. Rhetts.
Examining Clerk.

Geneva N.Y. Nov. 17. 1837 J. L. Edwards Esq.
Herewith I forward you the declaration of Mrs. Catarina Kelsey, whose husband served in the Revolutionary Army, as Second Lieutenant, together with such proof as she has in her power to obtain, in hopes it may be sufficient to get her on the pension Roll -
As regards the standing of Mrs. of the Ut- nips viz: Judge Woodworth of Albany and Capt Speyer of Yates, I beg leave to refer you to the President, who is personally acquainted with both
Respectfully Your obed Servt P. M. Day

Oct. 8.
NY.
add proof Catalina letter 2944
Rev James N. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
508

Geneva 2 d Octr. 1838
J. L. Edwards Esquire
Sir,
I enclose you herewith the affidavit of Abram Van Buren to prove a term of service performed by Lieutenant Fitch in Captain Dennis' company in Col. Van Rensselaer's Regiment in 1778 - in aid of the application of Catalina Kelsey - It is stated that Captain Dennis relieved Captain Woodward. It is much to be hoped that this additional evidence may obtain Mrs. Kelsey a pension as she is in most destitute circumstances -
Respectfully,
Your obed Servt
Wm Dayly

State of New York Secretary's Office
I certify that it appears by the Minutes of the Council of appointment of this State in this Office that on the first day of April 1778 James Denniston was appointed Captain of a company in the Regiment of Militia in the County of Albany whereof Killian Van Rensselaer was Colonel: and that on the 25 th day of June 1778 Joseph Fitch was appointed 1 st Lieutenant of Capt. Robert Woodwards Company in the said Regiment of Militia.
Albany May 23. 1840
Arch d Campbell Dep. Secretary

State of New York } Comptroller's Office } Albany Nov 28, 1854
I certify that the name of Joseph Fitch appears on a paper remaining in this Office purporting to be an agreement of enlistment by which the said Joseph Fitch and sixty others signing the same agrees to serve in the Provincial Forces under Captain John Vischer, Benjamin Evans first Lieutenant & Joseph Fitch 2 d Do. & Guy Young Ensign, until duly discharged. The said paper bears date June 3 rd 1775.
W. D. Haswell Clerk.
J. M. Wood Comptroller.

Prof. Lyden 2 Elm-4
Hon. Mr. Mallory
FREE
Hon. Mr. Mallory H.R.
M. R. Washington D.C.

State of New York Secretarys Office
I certify that it appears by the Minutes of the Council of appointment of this State in this Office that on the first day of April 1778 James Dunston was appointed Captain of a Company in the Regiment of Militia in the County of Albany whereof Killian Van Rensselaer was Colonel.
Arch d Campbell Dep Secretary
Albany May 30. 1840
The above will answer without Seal

State of New York Rensselaer County
Supplemental Affidavit
Abraham Van Buren being further deposited says that he was intimately ac- quainted with Joseph Fitch before & during the revolutionary war that said Fitch was a Lieutenant in the company of Captain John Fisk and that he entered the service & marched on the Saratoga campaign in the month of Sept. 1777. That the said St Joseph Fitch did not return home until sometime in May or June 1778. That he well remembers the time being a near neighbor of the said Fitch and it being the next Spring or Summer af- ter the declaration of Independence
He further says that the said Fitch did not again enter the regular service but joined the Militia and that he was in June 1778 appointed a Lieutenant in a Militia company That in the month of Oct. or Nov. of that year the regiment & company to which he belonged was called out on a 35 day tour that he St Fitch was at this time in the company of Captain James Denniston or as he was usually
* The words "Col. or Capt." inserted upon being suggested

called by this deponent & others, Dennis and that Lieutenant Joseph Titote did to this deponent knowledge perform the duty & service of 35 days for which the Militia were then called out & further he says not
Sworn & Subscribed before me this 7 th April 1840
his Abraham J Van Buren marks
Lawrence C Hoogboom (Commiss of Deeds)
This May Certify That I am well acquainted with Abraham Van Buren and that he is a man of good Moral Character and a credible Witness and the reason of his not writing his Name is that his Eye sight has failed him lately at the town of Schoharie this 9 th day April 1844
Lawrence C Hoogboom (Commiss of Deeds) Rensselaer County

STATE OF NEW-YORK, Rensselaer County Clerk's Office, } ss.
I, LELAND CRANDALL , Clerk of the County of Rensselaer, do hereby Certify, That Lawrence H. Hogeboom whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of proof or acknowledgment of the annexed Instrument, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, one of the Commissioners of Deeds of the County of Rensselaer, dwelling in said county; duly authorised to take such proof or acknowledgment. And that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Commissioner and verily believe that his signature to the said Certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my name, and affixed the Seal of said County, this Eighth day of April A. D. 18 60
Leland Crandall Clerk.

Rensselaer County ss SS Certify that I am acquainted with Abraham Van Buren with in named disponent and he is a credible Witness, and of highly respectable Character and the reason he does not write his name is that his hand trembles very much and also that his eye sight has failed Dated at Schoharie This 28 th day Sept r 1838
Lawrence C. Hogeboom Commiss y of Deeds Rensselaer Co. N.Y.

State of New York } Abraham Van Buren of Schoharie Rensselaer County } in the County of Rensselaer and State of New York aged Eighty One Years being duly sworn says that he was acquainted with Joseph Fitch from childhood to the time of his death in the year one thousand seven hundred & seventy nine. Knows that Joseph Fitch served as a Lieutenant under Capt. Dennis in the Regiment of Col. William Van Rensselaer in the year one thousand seven hundred & seventy eight at the town fort in the now County of Schoharie said deponent knows that said service was performed subsequent to his marriage from the circumstance that he visited his family in his absence and talked with his wife on the subject of his military duty and further this deponent saith not
his Abraham Van Buren Mark
Sworn & Subscribed before me this 21 st day of September 1838
Laurence C. Hogeboom Clerk of Deeds

State of New York Rensselaer County ss. Clerk's Office. J. Henry R. Bristol Clerk of said county Do hereby certify that Laurence C. Hoagboom Esq. before whom the annexed affidavit purports to have been sworn was at the time of taking the same a commissioner of Deeds &c. of the county of Rensselaer residing in said county & duly commissioned and sworn &c. And that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of the said commissioner & verily believe his signature to the jurat of said affidavit subscribed to be genuine.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my official seal this 22 nd day of September A. D. 1838. Henry R. Bristol Clerk

Supplemental Affidavit
State of New York Rensselaer County } ss
Capt. Nicholas Van Rensselaer being duly sworn says. That he was acquainted with Joseph Fitch, during the Revolutionary War that said Fitch was a Lieutenant in the company of Captain John Fisher, & that said company belonged to Col. Goose Van Schaick's regiments. That the said company of Capt. Fisher went to Canada in the summer of 1775. & that Lieutenant Fitch went with the com- pany. He further says that the regiments, Captain Fisher's company, with the rest went to Quebec in November or December of 1775 and that the said company of Captain Fisher of which Joseph Fitch was Lieutenant remained at Quebec until in the month of March or April  January 1776 when the troops left for the States, and that many of the said troops, this deponent & also Captain Fisher's company continued during the whole summer, & until in October or November 1776 to perform military duty in the Northern part of the State of New York

This deponent further says that at the last mentioned period, viz. in October or November 1776, a new organization of the New York Troops took place, that in this organization, Col. Goose Van Schoick was placed at the head of the first regiment, and that this deponent was also attached to that regiment, and this deponent cannot say whether Captain Fisher, or Lieutenant Fisher was attached to said regiment or not, but he thinks that they were not, but to some one of the five regiments which were formed at that time. St. Litch's service to Nov. 1776 is of his own knowledge. the word may have been and march or April intended before execution
Nicholas Van Rensselaer
Sworn to and subscribed before me by the said Nicholas Van Rensselaer who is known to me this 8 th day of April 1840. I further certify I am acquainted with the said N. V. Rensselaer and is a man of truth and kindly and fully entitled to believe
J. M. Lansing Comm. of Deeds.

STATE OF NEW-YORK, Rensselaer County Clerk's Office, } ss.
I, LELAND CRANDALL, Clerk of the County of Rensselaer, do hereby Certify, That James Lansing , whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of proof or acknowledgment of the annexed Instrument, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, one of the Commissioners of Deeds of the County of Rensselaer, dwelling in said county; duly authorised to take such proof or acknowledgment. And that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Commissioner and verily believe that his signature to the said Certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my name, and affixed the Seal of said County, this eighth day of April , A. D. 18 40
Leland Crandall Clerk.

State of New York
Albany County ss Nicholas Van Rensselaer
of Greenbush in the County of Rensselaer and State aforesaid aged Eighty two years & upwards being duly sworn says that he was acquainted with Joseph Fitch in the year one thousand seven hundred & seventy five & both before & after that year and knows that in the years 1775 & 1776 he served as a second Lieutenant in a company commanded by Capt John Fisher in the second continental regiment commanded by Colonel Goose Van Schaick and that he went to Canada in the capacity of second Lieutenant That he married Catharine Brezee (as the name was pronounced) as Deponent understood & believes altho' Deponent was not present at the marriage - Deponent further says that it was reported & commonly believed that the said Joseph died after such marriage & before the close of the war - and at the ti...

Deponit was stationed as a captain at Fort Stanwix - but at what partic- ular time Deponit is unable to state & further says not
Sworn before me this third day of October 1837 Nich: Van Rensselaer and I certify that I am acquainted with the above named Deponit and he is a credible witness of highly respectable character J. M. Niles Comr of Dist

Gates Surrogate's Court
In the matter of the administration with the will annexed of the estate of Catalina Kelsey deceased
Letters to
State of New York } Gates County ss: }
Recorded in the Surrogates Office of said County in Book 4 Part 2 of Letters of Administration &c at page P 4 - April 8 th 1854.
John E. Lewis Jr Surrogate
A. H. Markland Present

The People of the State of New York:
To Gillet Kelsey and William Taylor both of Benton in the county of Yates in said State:
Whereas at the village of Penn Yan in said county of Yates on the first day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty four before John L. Lewis Jr County Judge and Surrogate of the said county the Last Will and Testament of Catalina Kelsey late of Benton aforesaid deceased was proved and allowed by us (a full, true and exact copy whereof and of the certificate of probate of the said Surrogate thereon endorsed is hereto annexed and by which the said probate will more fully appear): And whereas Elijah Spencer the Sole Executor named and appointed in and by said last will and has heretofore and before the proving and allowing of said Will died at Benton aforesaid: And whereas the said Catalina Kelsey had whilst living and at the time of her death, goods, chattels and credits within this State, which by reason of the death of the said Elijah Spencer so named as Executor as aforesaid remain unadministered and you being entitled to the administration thereof with the will annexed and having first taken and subscribed an oath faithfully and honestly to discharge the duties of Administrators with the will annexed according to law, and having with your sureties executed a Bond to us for the faithful performance of those duties, which oath and bond are duly filed in the Surrogates Office of our said County of Yates: Now therefore we do by these presents depute, constitute and appoint you Administrators with the will annexed of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits which were of the said Catalina Kelsey deceased; and do hereby grant unto you the said Gillet Kelsey and William Taylor full power by these presents to fully administer upon her personal estate, and to execute the powers reposed in the Executor of said Will now deceased as aforesaid by said Will, and to do and perform all duties and acts relating thereto which by the laws of this State are required of Administrators with the will annexed appointed by the Surrogate, and the performance of which in the administration of the goods, chattels and credits aforesaid may be necessary for the due, faithful and proper administration thereof.
In Testimony whereof we have caused the seal of office of our Surrogate to be hereunto affixed: Witness John L. Lewis Jr County Judge and Surrogate of the said County of Yates at Penn Yan aforesaid this eighth day of April 1854.
John L. Lewis Jr County Judge and Surrogate.

(Copy of Will and Certificate)
The last Will and Testament of Catalina Kelsey.
I, Catalina Kelsey of Benton in the County of Yates and State of New York Do make this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say:
First I give and bequeath to my three Grand-Daughters, Harriet, Jane and Catharine my chest together with all my wearing apparel to be divided equally between the three.
Secondly after all my just debts and Funeral expenses are paid I give all the residue of my property consisting of money, notes, my Bed and Bedding and what other effects I may be possessed of at my decease to my two sons Henry and Gillet to be equally divided by my Executor herein after named between the two.
And I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty friend Elijah Spencer my sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former wills by me made.
In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and Seal this thirtieth day of November in the year A.D. one thousand eight hundred and forty.
her Catalina X. Kelsey mark
Signed, Sealed and acknowledged by the testator to be her last Will and Testament in the presence of us who by her request have signed the same as witnesses in presence of the testator and of each other.
Geo. H. Spencer Benton Yates Co.
James B. Spencer Benton Yates Co.
State of New York,
Yates County ss: It is hereby certified that at a Surrogates Court duly held in and for said County of Yates on the first day of April 1854 the last Will and Testament of Catalina Kelsey late of Benton in said County deceased (being the annexed written instrument) was duly proved before the Surrogate of said County according to law, and by him duly admitted to probate as such last will and testament as a will of personal estate only; and that said Will and the proofs and examinations taken in respect to the same have been duly recorded in said Surrogates Office; and it is further certified that Letters of Administration with the will annexed were on the eighth day of April duly granted to Gillet Kelsey and William Taylor Administrators with the will annexed in due form of law (Elijah Spencer the Executor named in said Will having died before the proving thereof) They having taken and subscribed the oath required by law as such Administrators with the

will annexed.
In Testimony whereof the Said Surrogate has hereunto subscribed his name and affixed his Seal of office
John E. Lewis Jr. County Judge and Surrogate
State of New York Gates County ss: } On the Seventeenth day of June A.D. 1854 before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for Said County duly Commissioned and sworn and authorized to administer oaths within the Said County personally appeared David P. Spencer aged fifty nine years, and James P. Kelley aged twenty five years whom I know to be residents of the County and state aforesaid and persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit and who being duly sworn according to law Severally depose and say and each for himself says that he was acquainted with Catalina Kelley deceased in the foregoing Letters and Copy of Will names as the testatrix therein named in her lifetime; that she resided in Benton in the Said County of Gates, and that the Said Catalina Kelley died in Said town of Benton on the twenty Seventh day of June A.D. 1841, and that he attended the funeral of Said Catalina Kelley deceased; that he is not interested in any way in the claim for the pension of Said Catalina Kelley deceased, and that he is a resident of the Said town of Benton.
David P. Spencer
J. P. Kelley
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year first above written and I hereby certify that I am not interested in the above claim as Attorney or otherwise.
James V. Varn, Clerk Justice of the Peace

Sworn to and Subscribed before me on the day and year first above written
State of New York, } ss. Yates Co. Clerk's Office.
James B. Van Alen
I hereby certify that James B. Van Alen Esquire, before whom the foregoing declaration and proceedings were had and sworn to, and who has subscribed his name thereto, was, at the date thereof, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn and authorized to administer oaths, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of said County of Yates, and of the several Courts of Record thereof, (being my official seal) this 17 th day of June 185 4 .
G. Martin Clerk.

Hon. M. Mallory
M.C.
Washington
D.C.
Mrs. F. Wilson
Z
Hon. M. Mallory
RR

Hon Wm Mallory
Jan 20 th 1840
Sir Enclosed is the Certificate of the Secy of State as to the fact of Joseph Tuttle being Lieutenant in the same regiment that James Darneston was Captain in. This Certificate was procured some time ago but I supposed it unnecessary as there is now on record in the Pension Office with the other papers of the Regt. The Commission that was issued in accordance with this appointment I presume the Com tee had forgotten that fact. The Certificate is however to the point. I hope now that a pension certificate will be issued. The political prospects in this state & county, right now the Democracy are more better organized than ever before. The very best spirit pervades the party. The Log Cabin & Hard Cider men begin to run down the men from Kentucky and the determined spirit of the democrats here has cast a clumper on the cause of Whiggery. Wm C. Bouk seems to be the favourite candidate for Governor & I S Dickerson for Secy if that be our ticket we shall succeed. depend upon it.
You will please to hand the Certificate enclosed to the Com tee of Pensions as soon as may be
Yours Truly
J. A. Clyburn
P.S. if objection be made that it does not appear that Darneston & Tuttle belonged to the same company it may be answered that said that in forming companies for the hours in which it is am m that state that it was customary & common to select from the different companies of the regiment a fact which can be sustained by affidavit.

in the matter of Catherine Stiles
602

State of New York Yates County ss.
We whose names are hereunto subscribed, being duly sworn according to law, doth on our oaths declare and say, that we are each of us, well acquainted with Ca- tharine Kelsey, of the Town of Benton, in said County. That we have known her for many years - that she has allways sustained a good character for truth and ve- racity, and in all other respects - and further that she has allways been reputed as having been married to a revolutionary Officer, and is still so believed, in the neighbourhood where she resides.
Subscribed and sworn before me the subscriber } Elijah Spencer a com y of Justices in and for said County by the said } as his Law Elijah Spencer on the 13 th day of March and before } said Joshua Lee on the 14 th day of March 1838 } who are to me well known to be individuals of reputed worth and veracity. Rich d Woodworth }
Yates County ss.
I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Elijah Spencer and Joshua Lee whose names are above subscribed and that they are individuals of reputed worth and veracity March 14 th 1838. A. Woodworth J. P.

Rensselaer County 3 State of New York 3 Abraham Van Buren of Schoharie in said county being duly sworn doth depose and say that he is Eighty One Years of Age and that he was well acquainted with Joseph Fitch who served as a Lieutenant under Captain Dennis Company of Militia and under the Command of Col. Battel who commanded the regular Troops at that time at Schoharie in the State of New York altho the said Fitch belonged to the Regiment of Militia under the Command of Col. William Van Rensselaer and that the said Fitch served at Schoharie one month as aforesaid in the Year 1778. and that Capt Dennis with his Company and Joseph Fitch as Lieutenant under said Dennis went to Schoharie to relieve the Company under the Command of Capt. Nicholas Staats to whose Company this deponent then belonged and that previous thereto the said Joseph Fitch was Married to Cattalina Preze and at the time of such service had one child
Sworn & Subscribed before
Me this 22 nd Day Decem r 1838
Lawrence C. Hoagboom
his Abraham Van Buren Mark
Comp s of Deeds
Abraham Van Buren does not write his name at this time on account of his having the Rheumatism in his right arm which causes his hand to tremble so that he is unable to hold the Pen
Lawrence C. Hoagboom
Comp s & C.
I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Abraham Van Buren and that he is a credible Witness
Lawrence C. Hoagboom
Comp s of Deeds

State of New York Rensselaer County ss: I Henry P. Bristol clerk of the said county do certify that Lawrence C. Hoogeboom before whom the within affidavit purports to have been sworn was at the date of the same a commissioner of deeds in & for the said county duly appointed sworn and authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said commissioner and that his signature within written is genuine In Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand & affixed the seal of the said county this 24 th day of December 1838 Henry P. Bristol clerk.

I certify that Catalina Kelsey now of Benton in the County of Yates was married to Joseph Fitch in the year 1776, but I can not say in what month of that year: my knowledge of the fact is the following; Joseph Fitch was my maternal uncle and altho' I do not recollect that I was present at the marriage ceremony, I well remember that the now Mrs Kelsey (then Catalina Breeze) was called in my father's family the wife of the said Joseph Fitch and always treated as such until the death of *her husband in 1778: they cohabited together as man and wife; I was frequently at the House they occupied and saw them, and particularly recollect being present with my father and mother at the funeral and then saw the now Mrs Kelsey sitting in mourning dress as the Widow of said Fitch - the issue of that marriage was a daughter born in January 1778 as I believe, afterwards married to John Breeze of Greenbush, but now deceased.
I further certify that I was well acquainted with the above named Mrs Kelsey before her marriage with Fitch; she resided in my father's family a short time before her marriage, and after the death of Fitch his widow above named was married to Elijah Kelsey now deceased. I never heard of nor do I believe there ever was a suggestion that the now Mrs Kelsey had not been the wife of the said Joseph Fitch. Given under my hand this 24 th December 1838 John Woodworth
# died in January 1779

State of New York } Albany County } ss
John Vanderpool being duly sworn says that he is 88 years of age and that he resides in the town of Guilderland County of Albany & State of New York. That he was a soldier in the revolutionary war and belonged to the company of Captain John Fisher and the regiment of Col Goose Van Schaick.
He further says that he was well acquainted with Joseph Fitch who was the youngest Lieutenant in the said company of Captain Fisher. He further says that the said company marched for Canada in the month of May or June of the year 1775 that they went by the way of Lake George to St Johns & Montreal & from thence to Quebec and that this deponent and also the said Lieutenant Fitch went with the army to Quebec.
This deponent further says that he (this deponent) remained at Quebec until the month of March of the year 1776 during which month he left that at this time viz in March 1776 & during the whole time since marching the said Lieutenant Fitch continued to discharge the duties
of an acting Lieutenant. And that he remained at Quebec after this deponent left.
This deponent does not know how long Lieutenant Fitch remained at Quebec after he left nor how long he remained in the army after this period.
John Vanderpool Mark

Albany County ss
The within deposition of John Vanderpool known to me subscribed by making his mark before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Albany, this sixth day of April 1840, and I certify that the said John Vanderpool is to me well known, and is a person of credibility and fully entitled to belief
John F. Quackenbush Justice of the Peace
State of New York
Albany County ss:
I Henry B. Haswell Clerk of the said County do hereby certify that John F. Quackenbush before whom the foregoing affidavit purports to have been sworn and whose name is subscribed to the certificate of credibility was on the day of the date of the same a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County and that his name above written is his proper hand writing and signature
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed the seal of the said County this 8 th day of April 1840.
H. B. Haswell Clerk